SouthernWorldwide.com – San Antonio Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson expressed his thoughts on Victor Wembanyama’s ejection during the team’s Game 4 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Sunday night.
Wembanyama was removed from the game after swinging his elbow and making contact with Timberwolves center Naz Reid in the face during the second quarter. This marked the first ejection of his professional career.
Johnson stated that he was “glad” Wembanyama “took matters into his own hands,” but also conveyed his concern regarding the level of physical play directed at Wembanyama during games.
“At some point, you have to protect yourself, given the amount of physicality people play with him,” Johnson continued, as reported by ESPN. “Every single play, on every part of the court, opponents are trying to impose their physicality on you. He’s been pushed down in transition while running freely. We don’t complain because we just focus on playing. We don’t really care. But at some stage, he should be protected. If not, he’s going to have to protect himself, and unfortunately, things like that happen.”
“It’s starting to get disgusting when he tries to push through things, be professional and mature, and deal with some of that stuff. I’m glad he took matters into his own hands. Not in terms of hitting Naz Reid, but he’s going to have to protect himself if they’re not going to. And I think it’s disgusting.”
The incident unfolded as Wembanyama was closely guarded by Reid and Jaden McDaniels after securing an offensive rebound. Both Timberwolves players attempted to dislodge the ball from him.
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McDaniels grabbed Wembanyama’s left arm. The 7-foot-4 phenomenon then swung his right arm backward, striking Reid in the neck.
Wembanyama was assessed a Flagrant 2 foul, which automatically results in an ejection from the game.
Johnson dismissed the possibility of Wembanyama facing a suspension for Game 5.
“There was zero intent,” he asserted. “I think it would be ridiculous.”
Minnesota’s victory evened the series at two games apiece.
